Blood is the life-maintaining fluid that circulates through the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. Because the blood performs many and complex functions, there are many disorders related to blood that require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. These conditions include anemia, bleeding disorders, as well as cancers of the blood.

Certain factors may cause Blood Disorders, disorders that affect the cells in the blood (blood cells) or proteins in the blood clotting or immune systems. Laboratory tests of blood samples are recommended to diagnose and monitor blood diseases. Because the liquid portion of the blood (plasma) carries so many substances essential to the functioning of the body, blood tests can be used to find out what is happening in many parts of the body.

There are a number of Blood Disorders prevailing these days. Some of them are Anemia, Pernicious Anemia, Sepsis, Sickle Cell Anemia, Hypoglycemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia and Leukemia.

Different type of Blood Disorder shows different symptom. Symptoms of blood disorders are often vague and nonspecific, that is, they could indicate a disorder of almost any part of the body. However, although no single symptom unmistakably indicates a blood disorder, certain groups of symptoms suggest the possibility. Such groups of symptoms most commonly relate to decrease in blood cells, such as a reduced number of red blood cells (anemia), a reduced number of white blood cells, a reduced number of platelets or increased numbers of blood cells.

Disorders of substances (factors) responsible for normal blood clotting may result in insufficient blood clotting (manifesting as excessive bruising or bleeding or as small red or purple spots on the skin) or in the formation of abnormal blood clots (producing warm, painful areas in the legs or sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or both). These problems may arise because the body does not produce enough of these factors, the factors are abnormal, or the body is using up the factors too quickly.

Doctors may prescribe different treatment options according to the type and stage of Blood Disorder. A number of treatment options are being suggested like bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplant, Blood Transfusion, Chemotherapy etc.

When you think of a transplant, you may have an image of a major surgical procedure to replace a diseased organ. But stem cell transplants do not involve surgery. And the “organ” involved is bone marrow — not a solid organ such as a liver.

A stem cell transplant is the infusion of healthy stem cells into your body. If all goes well, these healthy stem cells take hold in your body and begin normal production of blood cells.

Treatment becomes less complex if the disorder is diagnosed at an early stage.

Over the past few years it seems that teacup chihuahuas are growing in popularity. Why is it that so many people prefer them over any other dog? Well, chihuahuas are already the smallest dog breed in the world and having one means that it will be the smallest of the smallest and they many people think they are the cutest.

What most people don’t know is that common terms like “teacup”, “toy”, “deerhead”, or “applehead” are not defined as a chihuahua breed by any of the major canine organizations such as the AKC, CKC, or the UKC. In fact the only different official chihuahua breeds are long-haired and short-haired. The term is usually used to define a chihuahua which weighs less than the standard. It seems to be a popular term that most people and chihuahua breeders use and will probably be here to stay even if it isn’t recognized as a chihuahua breed.

If you are looking for a teacup chihuahua don’t always listen the breeder or the seller. Many times chihuahua sellers will claim to have puppies for sale. The fact is, no one can tell whether a puppy less than 10 weeks old will be a teacup size or not. Checking to see if the puppies parents are teacup wont work either. It is nearly impossible to determine if a chihuahua is going to be a teacup based on the size of their parents.

If you do decide to get a teacup chihuahua, be prepared to expect more health problems. Being the smallest dog in the world comes with its fair share of health problems including regulating their blood sugar (hypoglycemia), dehydration, and respiratory problems. They will need extra care and special attention especially as puppies and should always be checked out by a licensed veterinarian for thyroid and liver problems.

Being so small makes them much more likely to get seriously injured. Kids often like to play rough with them or can even step on them. If you have kids, please don’t get a teacup chihuahua.

Dogs often lick the ground, sometimes ingesting fertilizers, cleaning agents, and other harmful chemicals in their system. This can be especially dangerous for teacup chihuahuas. Being so small makes their body much more vulnerable to low doses of toxins.

The weather will also affect teacup chihuahuas more than others. Consider getting your chihuahua a sweater for the winter time to give some extra warmth and protection.

Teacup chihuahuas can make wonderful pets. Just remember that smaller isn’t always better. Make sure you have a healthy chihuahua over the smallest.

Americans consume between two to three pounds of sugar every week. The sugar is being processed in so many foods we eat. These foods are not just sweets. Sugar in large quantities can be found in peanut butter, mayonnaise, bread, ketchup and many other categorically “non-sweets” products.

Now let’s get to the question: Why is Refined Sugar bad for you?

Refined Sugar is bad for you because it raises the insulin level in your blood.

Raised blood insulin levels depress the immune system. If your immune system is depressed then your ability to fight disease is weakened.

Raised blood insulin levels can cause weight gain. Insulin promotes the storage of fat; so, when you eat foods high in refined sugar, you increase fat storage. Obviously, the result is rapid weight gain.

Refined Sugar contains no vitamins or minerals so in order for sugar to be metabolized it must draw on the body’s reserve of vitamins and minerals. When these reserves are depleted, metabolization of cholesterol and fatty acid is impeded, contributing to higher blood serum triglycerides, cholesterol, promoting obesity due to higher fatty acid storage around organs.

In summary here are ways that refined sugar can affect your health:
o Sugar can suppress the immune system.
o Sugar can upset the body’s mineral balance.
o Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children.
o Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.
o Sugar can cause drowsiness and decreased activity in children.
o Sugar can reduce helpful high density cholesterol (HDLs).
o Sugar can promote an elevation of harmful cholesterol (LDLs).
o Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.
o Sugar contributes to a weakened defense against bacterial infection.
o Sugar can cause kidney damage.
o Sugar can increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
o Sugar may lead to chromium deficiency.
o Sugar can cause copper deficiency.
o Sugar interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium.
o Sugar can increase fasting levels of blood glucose.
o Sugar can promote tooth decay.
o Sugar can produce an acidic stomach.
o Sugar can raise adrenaline levels in children.
o Sugar can lead to periodontal disease.
o Sugar can speed the aging process, causing wrinkles and grey hair.
o Sugar can increase total cholesterol.
o Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity.
o High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
o Sugar can contribute to diabetes.
o Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.
o Sugar can cause a decrease in insulin sensitivity.
o Sugar leads to decreased glucose tolerance.
o Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.
o Sugar can increase systolic blood pressure.
o Sugar causes food allergies.
o Sugar can cause free radical formation in the bloodstream.
o Sugar can cause toxemia during pregnancy.
o Sugar can contribute to eczema in children.
o Sugar can overstress the pancreas, causing damage.
o Sugar can cause atherosclerosis.
o Sugar can compromise the lining of the capillaries.
o Sugar can cause liver cells to divide, increasing the size of the liver.
o Sugar can increase the amount of fat in the liver.
o Sugar can increase kidney size and produce pathological changes in the kidney.
o Sugar can cause depression.
o Sugar can increase the body’s fluid retention.
o Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.
o Sugar can cause hypertension.
o Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.
o Sugar can cause an increase in delat, alpha and theta brain waves, which can alter the mind’s ability to think clearly.
o Sugar can increase blood platelet adhesiveness which increases risk of blood clots and strokes.
o Sugar can increase insulin responses in those consuming high-sugar diets compared to low sugar diets.
o Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.

Bullet List Source: http://www.nancyappleton.com

I’m sure in childhood you heard it said many times that the most important meal of the day is breakfast. It’s a very true statement. A lot of people tend to skip breakfast and it’s not a good idea.

Even though you may lead a busy life and may be in a rush in the mornings it’s vital to leave enough time for a healthy breakfast. Maybe that’s why so many people are cranky in the morning. They haven’t eaten a good breakfast so their blood sugar has dropped leaving them hungry and irritable.

There again there’s also a lot of people who eat breakfast but eat the wrong type of stuff, sugary food or donuts. This isn’t a good idea. A sugary breakfast isn’t healthy. It may give you a sugar rush and a much needed boost of energy but it’s not enough to set you up for the day ahead. Maybe too, this is why people have a habit of drinking a lot of coffee. They need the jolt of energy from the caffeine to wake them up and get them going for the day.

Do you ever feel sleepy or sluggish during the day? Or find it hard to get wakened up properly in the morning? This is because you’re probably eating an unhealthy breakfast or no breakfast at all. It’s vital to realise how important breakfast is. You should have a good substantial breakfast every day of the week.

So, what to eat for breakfast. Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts.

DON’T

Eat sugary cereals. They’re just empty calories that aren’t beneficial for your body in any way. Too much sugar will also make you pile on the pounds. Do you ever feel tired late morning? This is because you’ve eaten too much sugar.

Eat donuts. For the reasons explained above.

Fried breakfasts. Although the idea of bacon and eggs may seem appealing it’s unhealthy and not good for you. All that fat will leave you feeling too full to move. Try some French toast instead.

Pastries. Again these are full of sugar and empty calories and are an unhealthy choice. They provide no sustenance for the day ahead.

Too Much Coffee. Just because coffee gives you a quick energy boost don’t get into the way of thinking that you can just drink that instead of having a proper meal.

DO

Eat a low sugar cereal. A good healthy breakfast is a bowl of cereal with milk.

An egg sandwich. Very popular at fast food outlets but why not try making them at home? Experiment with ingredients. Try adding lean ham or some cheese. Make breakfast fun and exciting.

Eggs. An excellent choice for breakfast. Many people may be worried by speculation that eggs are in fact not as good for you as once thought. Don’t be put off by this - just as with all other stuff moderation is the key.

Pancakes. A nice treat from time to time but don’t eat too often if you’re making them in the pan as they will contain too many calories. Invest in a griddle for a healthier option and be able to eat them as often as you like. Steer clear from toppings such as syrup and sugar. Instead try adding some fresh fruit for that healthy alternative. Delicious!

Juice. A great pick me up first thing in the morning. A great alternative to coffee. Just be careful though - some people may find it has laxative qualities!

Toast. Been around a long time but still a favourite. Go easy on the butter though.

Oatmeal. A great set me up for the day. Cook and add a little sugar and some milk and you have a breakfast that fill you up and will keep you going all morning.

Fruit. Chop up some fruit for a refreshing start to the day. Quick and easy to whip up into the bargain. Throw in lots of your favourite items into a healthy fruit salad.

So there we have it, some great ideas for a healthy and delicious breakfast. All easy and quick to make. Just remember- stay away from the sugary junk food!

When glucose levels rise in blood, a person is said to suffer from the disease called diabetes or diabetes mellitus. Diabetes has now become a very common disease. To keep pace with the fast flowing life, people have adopted sedentary lifestyle, inactivity, faulty food habits, and this has caused almost every house to have a patient of diabetes. Normally the carbohydrates we consume take the form of glucose. The hormone, insulin secreted by our pancreas breaks down the glucose, makes it absorbable by the body cells, and in the process converts it in to energy. When pancreas produces insufficient insulin or when body cells become insulin resistant, glucose collects in blood, leading to diabetes. Diabetes can be kept under check, and the patient can lead a hale and hearty life. But if not timely diagnosed, it can be fatal causing serious damage to kidneys, liver, heart, eyes and even the nervous system.

Types of Diabetes

Diabetes is mainly of three types - Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational. Type 1 diabetes is caused due to insufficient insulin production. The patient in this case, has to take insulin injections. Type 2 is caused due to cells growing non-reactive to insulin and Gestational diabetes occurs in women during pregnancy.

Symptoms of Diabetes

1. Increased urination
2. Increased hunger
3. Increased thirst
4. Loss of weight
5. Fatigue
6. Irritability
7. Nausea and vomiting
8. Blurred vision
9. Passing of acidic urine with a sweet smell
10. Poor wound healing
11. Intense itching around genitals

Normal Blood Glucose Readings, Range and Chart

Normal blood glucose readings indicate the amount of glucose that should normally be present in the blood stream. Normal blood glucose should range between 70 to 150 mg. Levels are lower in the morning, when the body is on fast and rise after the meals. Actually glucose level readings depend on factors like the amount of food consumed, whether one has done exercise or not before the blood test and so on. If glucose levels are consistently above 150 mg, the condition is known as hyperglycemia or high blood sugar, and the person is said to be diabetic. If the readings are below 70 mg, the condition is known as hypoglycemia. Normal blood glucose readings and range depend on how the blood glucose has been tested. Testing of blood glucose can be done through the following ways.

1. Fasting blood glucose test-This test is done when the body is on fast for more than eight hours. The time span between the previous day’s dinner and the next day’s breakfast makes up for the body’s fasting period, and it is suitable to take the fasting blood glucose readings at that time. Normal fasting blood glucose level should be less than 110 mg/dl. If it is above 126 mg/dl, the person is said to be diabetic.

2. Random blood glucose test-This test is done any time. The normal count should be in the mid 100’s. If the reading is 200 or above, the person is diagnosed with diabetes.

3. Oral glucose tolerance test-In case of this test, the patient is made to drink a sugar water solution after fasting overnight. Glucose levels in blood are then tested over several hours. In a non-diabetic person, the glucose levels rise after drinking the solution and then fall quickly. In a diabetic, glucose levels will at once soar higher than normal, and will not drop as quickly. A normal glucose reading should be 140 mg/dl two hours after drinking the solution. If the reading is 200 mg/dl or more, the person is said to be diabetic.

Chart

Normal person

1. Minimum fasting value - 70 mg/dl.
2. Maximum fasting value - 100 mg/dl.
3. Post-Prandial - less than 140 mg/dl.

Pre-diabetic

1. Minimum fasting value - 101 mg/dl.
2. Maximum fasting value - 126 mg/dl.
3. Post-Prandial - 140-200 mg/dl.

Diabetic

1. Minimum fasting value - more than 126 mg/dl.
2. Maximum fasting value - 126 mg/dl.
3. Post-Prandial - more than 200 mg/dl.

For the past 5 years I have been a huge proponent of wheat grass juice. Ever since I was stricken with a very nasty bout of mono, I was turned on to the healing properties of wheat grass juice. My major ailment was fatigue and an inability to fight virus and heal quickly.

I cannot speak highly enough of wheat grass juice in my daily diet. I can literally see and feel a difference when I am not consistent in my intake of this nutrient rich megavitamin shot. My hair is healthier, I am more energized and balanced.

Just how does wheat grass work and what makes wheat grass juice so special?

As a grass, it is rich in chlorophyll and has the ability to concentrate nutrients from its soil. The best type of wheat grass juice is that grown in very rich soils like mineral rich soils.

Its properties are antibacterial and antiseptic in nature. Wheat grass juice can stop unfriendly bacteria from wreaking havoc on your system. This powerful green super food has been known through the ages as a source of health and well being.

Dr. Birscher, a research scientist, called chlorophyll “concentrated sun power.” He said, “chlorophyll increases the function of the heart, affects the vascular system, the intestines, the uterus, and the lungs.”

In the American Journal of Surgery (1940), Benjamin Gruskin, M.D. recommends chlorophyll for its multitude of benefits. The article suggests the following clinical uses for chlorophyll: to clear up foul smelling odors, neutralize Strep infections, heal wounds, hasten skin grafting, cure chronic sinusitis, overcome chronic inner-ear inflammation and infection, reduce varicose veins and heal leg ulcers, eliminate impetigo and other scabby eruptions, heal rectal sores, successfully treat inflammation of the uterine cervix, get rid of parasitic vaginal infections, reduce typhoid fever, and cure advanced pyorrhea in many cases.

Unlimited Benefits of Wheat Grass Juice:

Helps prevent tooth decay

Neutralizes carcinogens

Cleanses blood by removing toxins and harmful chemicals

Detoxes liver, cells, tissue and blood

Lowers high blood pressure

Increases oxygen levels in the blood stream

Improved digestion

Creates balanced pH environment to prevent cancer

Increases energy

Provides healthier hair and reduces dandruff

Alleviates eczema and psoriasis

Improved ability of the body to heal wounds

Chlorophyll found in wheatgrass can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Has anti-aging abilities and can keep the hair from greying.

Ailments Wheat Grass Juice helps fight:

Chronic fatigue

Diabetes

Arthritis

Arteriosclerosis

Acne

Eczema

Constipation

Pancreatic troubles

High blood pressure

Mucus build-up in the intestines

Hypoglycemia

Allergies

High cholesterol

Cancer

Heart problems

Anemia

Liver troubles

Premature aging

Thyroid gland problems

Increases fertility- The high magnesium content in the chlorophyll of the wheat grass juice actually builds enzymes that increase fertility hormones.

An ounce a day can definitely keep the doctor away.

What is the most deadly psychological disorder today? If you guessed an eating disorder, then you are right. According to WebMD, eating disorders are illnesses that cause a person to adopt harmful eating habits. So, does this make WebMD just a great resource, or is this really true, and is an eating disorder really a dangerous illness? Most sufferers of an eating disorder are often mocked about their problem, and they are not taken seriously. People should not misinterpret or disbelieve sufferers of an eating disorder because it is, in fact, a very serious illness. There are, however, minor cases of eating disorders but there are far too many deaths related to them, thus we must take this issue very seriously and approach it with care.

Why are eating disorders the greatest killers among the many different psychological disorders? This is because of the media, as well as the disorder’s dramatic and deadly affects on the body. Today, media is in our lives no matter where we go. From television, radio, and the news, to magazines, newspapers, and the internet, media plays a big role in the spreading ideas, norms, and styles to people. Media spreads information really quickly to millions of people. Media is around people no matter where they turn, and they face it on a daily basis in some form. So, how is media related to eating disorders? This question, and many other questions, will be answered after we get a better understanding of what an eating disorder is, its characteristics, statistics, and ways to prevent and treat it. I will, however, focus only on anorexia and bulimia because they are more affected by the media than overeating disorders are.

People with eating disorders obsess about their intake of food, and they spend a lot of time thinking about their weight and body image. Their body is badly affected both emotionally and physically. People with an eating disorder may suffer from a number of different symptoms, and not everyone gets the same symptoms as they vary from individual to individual. According to the Help Guide-Mental Health Issues, even though anorexia is the most revealed eating disorder in the media, bulimia is the most prevalent eating disorder.

A person suffering from anorexia sees themselves as fat when they are, in fact, skinny and underweight. Their weight does not match their height, activity level or age. They get bad memory, feel depressed, have a fear of gaining weight, feel light headed, and often faint. Women with anorexia may have problems with their menstrual cycle such as missed or late periods, as well as trouble getting pregnant. Woman who are pregnant have a higher risk of a miscarriage and a higher risk to need to deliver their baby through C-section. People suffering from anorexia can also have muscle and joint problems, kidney stones, kidney failure, anemia, bloating, constipation, low levels of potassium, magnesium, and sodium in their bodies, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and heart failure. Some physical signs that can be seen on a person suffering from anorexia are dry or yellow skin, brittle nails, more hair growth on their body, and thin and brittle hair. A person with anorexia may also get cold easily, bruise easily, and feel down a lot.

A person suffering from bulimia can get the same effects as a person suffering from anorexia since both disorders involve the loss of major and rapid weight, which leads to very unhealthy changes in the body. Symptoms between anorexia and bulimia sufferers differ in the way that sufferers of bulimia would eat a lot of food in a short amount of time and then force themselves to throw up, when people with anorexia just don’t want to eat altogether. People with bulimia also misuse laxatives and go on strict diets of fasting and rigorous exercising. Sufferers from eating disorders in general are affected emotionally, psychologically, behaviorally, and socially. Emotional and psychological changes include increased anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, guilt, and low self esteem. Some changes in behavior of a person suffering from an eating disorder include dieting, frequent visits to the bathroom after eating, a change in fashion, and constantly checking their weight. Some social changes of a person suffering from an eating disorder may include isolation, being anti-social, avoiding social gatherings where food is involved, and a loss of interest for hobbies. Other physical signs of eating disorders in general include edema, a reduction in metabolism, sore throats, stomach problems, heartburn, and hypoglycemia; which leads to irrational thinking, shaking, confusion, irritability, and comas.

Eating disorders have a big impact on society on a small and on a large scale; meaning both individuals and society as a whole dedicate significant parts of their lives to the struggles of dealing with eating disorders. A lot of money and time go into the troubles of dealing with an eating disorder, as well as into the measures taken in order to treat and prevent them. Eating disorders are very common amongst celebrities, mainly because their profession puts pressure on them to be skinny. The majority of celebrities that we see in the media are all skinny, and most of them are anorexic or bulimic. The fans of these celebrities look at the bodies of their idols and they want to be like them. The problem with this is that anorexic and skinny celebrities do not make good role models for their fans because their skinny figures are not a healthy look to follow. Famous people believe that in order to be successful they must be skinny. This is not true. Celebrities expose their looks and body image to the media where fans can see them and get the wrong idea that their idol’s looks are acceptable when their idols are only trying to lose weight for their own “success”. In a weight article, Monica Seles stated that “Women in society have much tougher pressure to be thin.” It is like a cycle; celebrities are skinny in order to impress their fans and companies. They send their fans the wrong idea, thus making their fans lose weight. In the end, everyone has the idea that they must be thin and they must lose weight, thus, being skinny becomes the norm.

According to the article “Eating Disorders and Body Image in the Media” by Heather Mudgett, media can be very hypocritical because while the media shares news about celebrities dying from eating disorders, it also contains images of underweight celebrities modeled as if everyone should look like them. We might also see an article about a person dying from an eating disorder in a magazine, and on the next page we might see an underweight model, modeling a popular product. The underweight images of people in the media give consumers the wrong idea that being skinny is ok and that there is nothing wrong with it, when, in fact, being that skinny can lead to a person’s own death. Consumers spend so much money on products and services that will help them lose weight, such as weight loss drinks, nutrition bars, pills, laxatives, weight loss videos, and they even take weight loss classes. People also misuse drugs and liquids in order to force themselves to lose weight, and this can be very stressing to the body. Any time that we do something against our body’s natural functions, we hurt our body and put ourselves at great risk to further health problems in the future.

So many celebrities suffer and have died from eating disorders. Singer Karen Carpenter was struggling with anorexia and bulimia and after she went to treatment for years, everyone thought that she had recovered and was doing better. After that, she was found dead on the bathroom floor in her parent’s house. She had a heart attack and it was said that the result of it was because she had abused the drug Ipecac for years. Ipecac is a liquid that is used to induce vomiting, and it is often abused by anorexics and bulimics.

According to the South Carolina Department of Health, about seven million American women and one million American men have an eating disorder. About one in every two hundred women in America has anorexia, and about two or three out of one hundred women have bulimia. About half of Americans know at least one person who has an eating disorder. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, about 5% to 10% of people diagnosed with anorexia will die within 10 years of having the disease, about 18% to 20% of people will be dead after having the disease for 20 years and only 30% to 40% of people will recover from it. It is very scary fact that the rate of mortality for people with anorexia is twelve times higher than the rate of death of all of the causes of death for females from 15 to 24 years old. (South Carolina Department of Health). Nearly 20% of the people who have anorexia will die prematurely from health problems and heart problems due to their eating disorder. About 95% of people with an eating disorder are between the ages of 12 and 25, about 50% of females between the ages of 11 and 13 see themselves as overweight, and around 80% of 13 year old’s have, at some point, tried to lose weight. It is a very sad fact that over 80% of females who have made an effort to go get treatment for their eating disorder, have not received the full treatment that they need in order to fully recover. This often leads to the disorder reoccurring and to the patients hurting their health even more. Obviously, eating disorders are really serious and they should be treated as soon as possible.

Since eating disorders are such important problems facing society today, researchers have used psychological theories to try to solve these problems including group therapy, medical treatment, and nutritional counseling. Eating disorders are treatable, and a person who has an eating disorder does have a chance of getting better, however, if the media continues to idolize skinny celebrities and condone their extremely thin size, it will continue to aid people in trying to lose weight. Having an eating disorder is like a really bad habit that needs to be stopped. A lot of people do not have the ability to stop this bad habit on their own, thus they need help from professional doctors and even family. There are several different methods used to treat an eating disorder. Since an eating disorder affects individuals both physically and psychologically, the treatment for an eating disorder has to satisfy both the physical and psychological aspect of the disorder. Medicine alone wont help a patient get better. In order to get positive long term effects from the treatment, a patient has to receive a mix of medical and psychological help for their disorder. Some therapies that psychologists use to determine the problem and treatment of an eating disorder are cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy allows psychologists to see the patient’s thought process, interpersonal therapy involves dealing with difficult relationships with others, rational emotive therapy involves studying a patient’s unhelpful beliefs, and psychoanalytic psychotherapy involves looking at a person’s past experiences. All of this information can help a psychologist find the problem, and come up with the solution to the problem. Group therapy is a helpful part of treatment that allows sufferers of the similar eating disorders get together to discuss their problem. Groups are able to discuss coping strategies, ask and answer questions, and talk about ways to change their behavior. Medical treatment is necessary in order to make sure that the patient receives full treatment. Drugs such as anti-depressants can be prescribed by an experienced doctor who knows your condition in order to help treat your illness. Nutritional counseling is another effective and good way to help treat eating disorders. Dieticians and nutritionists can help patients understand what a well-balanced diet is and what foods they should eat on a daily basis. Nutritional counseling can also help patients face their fears about food and get over their fears of being afraid to eat.

A lot of people are confused about what “normal eating” is so they need nutritional counseling to help them get back on track. Not that many people who suffer from an eating disorder go to get treated for it. According to the South Carolina Department of Health , only 1 out of 10 people who suffer from an eating disorder go to get treatment. The cost of treatment for an outpatient is very expensive. Costs for outpatient treatment can be over $100,000. In the US, the cost of treatment for an eating disorder per day is anywhere from $500 to $2,000. On average, a person in inpatient treatment has to pay $30,000 a month. People with eating disorders need approximately 3-6 months of inpatient care in order to recover. The cost of treatment for an eating disorder is ridiculously high, and the high costs might be a reason that people do not go to get treated. It is very hard for most families to pay for the treatment of their illness, especially when insurance companies don’t usually cover eating disorder costs. Another way to help reduce the number of people with eating disorders is to educate people about the dangers of eating disorders through media. The media is a good tool to help educate people on the dangers of eating disorders, but it is also a tool that hurts people by condoning the appearances of skinny people who suffer from such disorders. Another way that eating disorders can be treated and minimizes is through the “Doll Experiment”. People were shown that if a human being had the same attributes as a Barbie doll, the body would not be able to hold itself because of its awkward shape and structure. This is a good way to show people that a Barbie doll isn’t necessarily what women today should aim towards looking like. In the same way, the celebrities we see on TV are not people who we should try to look like either.

I believe that as long as the media continues to idolize thin celebrities, the effects of education about the dangers of eating disorders through the media will not be effective. For each step that they take forward to solve the problem, they take two steps back by continuing to idolize thin celebrities. It is not a question of what effects have a greater likelihood of causing an eating disorder, but it is a fact that media does contribute to people developing and maintaining eating disorders. There are other causes of eating disorders, such as interpersonal or biological factors, but if the problem of media influencing eating disorders can be changed, there will be fewer cases of eating disorders. We have to take one step at a time in order to solve this very serious problem of eating disorders, and a great place to start is to change the fact that media influences eating disorders. There is not one cause of eating disorders, but media is a big influence to them since media reaches so many people. Personally, I think that group therapy very helpful in the treatment process of an eating disorder. Victims of an eating disorder are able to ask questions and receive answers in order to better understand their situation.

This is very helpful and it might make the victims of eating disorders feel more comfortable knowing that there are other people out there who are going through the same thing. Unfortunately, people are put under so much pressure to be thin by watching skinny celebrities all over the media be idolized. If they are being idolized does that means that they are good role models and their behaviors should be followed? No, most of the time, celebrities are not good role models. I believe that early childhood education is very important because I think that eating disorders start at an early age when children are naive and susceptible to being changed by others. Educating young kids about the media and how to criticize media is a very important step to reducing the number of people with eating disorders. Since media has such a big influence on eating disorders, children should be able to effectively criticize it and not fall victim to its schemes.

Personally, I don’t think that the media will ever be an effective resource for people to learn the truth and to learn about eating disorders. The media spreads a lot of false information and people tend to misinterpret the messages they hear on TV. Companies try to sell us products that will reduce our weight and make ourselves look “beautiful” by spending millions of dollars on advertisements. Consumers spend a lot of money and time trying to lose weight and buying these products that are not what the body needs. I believe that our bodies know what they need and ever one’s body is different. Everyone has a different metabolism and shape, and we have to learn how to love ourselves for who we are. We need to teach children at a young age that what they say on TV is not what it is cracked up to be and that they need to have self confidence, because if they don’t create an image for themselves, the media will do it for them.

You might be thinking what is the connection between diabetes and the menopause? Well, for ladies reaching that certain age, it can be very traumic. Menopause is not necessarily a negative experience. It is sometimes called a “change of life” as there are a lot of changes going on in a woman’s body, both as menopause approaches and afterwards.

The menopause marks an important transition into the last third of a woman’s life. It gives the woman and her health professionals an opportunity to review health risks, plan preventive activities, and establish monitoring strategies. This is especially important in women with diabetes because of the compounding menopausal cardiovascular risk and those associated with diabetes. The importance of the menopause is often not appreciated by women with diabetes, nor by their health professionals, and opportunities to avoid future problems may be missed.

Menopause is a natural process that women go through as the child-bearing years come to an end and the ovaries cease to release eggs every month. Menopause is usually defined as the point when periods stop. Menopause is not an event, but a slow process, often lasting up to 10 years. It starts during the age of 40s (sometime late 30s) and the average age for most women to have their last period is 51, where the female sex hormones hormones, estrogen and progesterone, begin to decline.

How menopause affects diabetes

As you approach menopause, ovaries gradually stop producing the hormone estrogen and progesterone. Both of these hormones affect insulin which is the hormone produced by the pancreas that deliver glucose which is life sustaing to every cell in the body.

Decrease levels of estrogen and progesterone can:

Increase the blood sugar. This will be mostly during perimenopause where the body may become more resistant to insulin and this causes blood sugar level to rise.

Decrease the blood sugar. This will be during the time when you reach menopause. Where the levels of estrogen and progesterone decline permanently. Where the body may regain its sensitivity to insulin, which causes blood sugar levels to fall.

The hormone fluctuations that characterize menopause may wreak havoc on the hard-earned blood glucose control. With less progesterone, there may be greater insulin sensitivity and with less estrogen insulin resistance increases, and the lack of these hormones can also cause other changes which can worsen diabetes complications. For example, lowered estrogen levels increase the risks of cardiovascular disease, which is already higher for people who have diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Many symptoms are attributed to menopause, and the most common are hot flashes, disturbed sleep, night sweats and the decreased ability to think clearly. Both menopause and diabetes produce similar symptoms. Some mistake menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, moodiness etc as the symptoms of low blood sugar, so that they incorrectly assume these symptoms are a result of low blood sugar and start consuming unnecessary calories which in turn raises the blood sugar and in advertently cause a surge in blood sugar

Because of diabetes women experience stronger and more frequent episodes of low blood sugar especially at night. This may affect their sleep, already interrupted by menopause - associated with hot flashes and night sweats. Such sleep deprivation causes fluctuations in blood sugar.

In order to combat this women choose to take hormone replacement therapy or HRT.These hormones (estrogen and progesterone) replace the hormones that the body no longer make. But this will not be possible in the case of women if she is a diabetic as these hormones affect the blood sugar. But these doses with HRT are so low and they do not cause much effect. In that case the diabetic medicine needs to be adjusted also .If the woman is exposed to these hormones it has benefits like

Protect the heart

Protect the bones from the loss of calcium which can lead to brittle bones.

Eliminate the symptoms such as hot flashes (which are easy to confuse with hypoglycemia) helps to sleep and think more easily.

Complications of Menopause

Majority of women will experience this complication but the intensity may vary within each women

Irregular bleeding

Hot flushes

Vaginal thinning and dryness

Osteoporosis

Heart diseases

Menopause is complete when you have not menstruated for 12 months. Women with type 1 diabetes experience menopause earlier than average. Women with type 2 diabetes may go through menopause later than average if they are above a healthy weight, as estrogen levels do not decrease as rapidly in women who are overweight.

This is one of the major problems in many women as they gain weight and become less active during this time, which compounds blood glucose control difficulties. So it is vitally important to plan a nutritious, low fat diet with calcium supplements if needed and physical activity. As these measures will lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by keeping the cholesterol level low and protect the bones against the thinning of osteoporosis.

Regular exercise benefits the heart and bones, help to regulate weight, contributes to a sense of overall well-being and improvement in mood. Sedentary women are far more prone to coronary heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and osteoporosis. They also suffer from chronic back pain, stiffness, insomnia, and irregularity. Depression is also a problem. Therefore exercise plays an important and beneficial role as it circumvent these problems and also achieve higher HDL cholesterol levels.

The Benefits of regular exercise

o Increases circulation, and improves the regulation of body temperature.

o Improves weight control by increasing basal metabolic rate and lean body mass.

o Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by strengthening the circulatory system, lowering blood pressure and maintaining a healthier blood cholesterol level.

o Increases strength and range of movement.

o Elevates your mood and controls stress.

o Reduces the likelihood of osteoporosis.

Some suggestions that may reduce the discomforts of menopause:

1.Eat well balanced meals that forms the basis for managing the diabetes

2.Cutting out caffeine which may help to reduce hot flashes.

3.Consuming more legumes and soy products which decreases the discomforts associated with menopause as these foods contain phytoestrogen (plant estrogen.

4.Last but not the least being physically active may help to increase energy levels and give you a mental lift.

Therefore menopause is an important phase in women’s life where she undergoes a lot of physical changes. The body goes through changes that can affect her social life, her feelings about herself, and functioning at work. Till recently menopause was often surrounded by misconceptions and myths, but it is a natural; step in the process of aging. So one should accept menopause and age gracefully - for “As a white candle in a holy place so is fine beauty of an aged face.”

The normal blood sugar level for a person depends upon when the test for blood glucose is performed as well as whether an individual is diabetic or not. When performed in the morning before the first meal - fasting blood sugar - the normal range is from 70 to 100 milligrams per deciliter. This test is performed without food for the six to eight hours previous and should not be confused with either the preprandial test. A preprandial test, one performed two hours before a meal, will have a range from 80 to 110 milligrams per deciliter. A postprandial test is performed after a meal, typically two hours after eating, and should not exceed 145 milligrams per deciliter.

However, these levels are not those recommended by the American Diabetes association for diabetics. Preprandial (including fasting), the blood sugar is expected to be from 70 to 130 milligrams per deciliter. The postprandial glucose level should be below 180 milligrams per deciliter. Diabetics, either because of insulin resistance or reduced insulin production, are unable to metabolize glucose as well as non0diabetics, hence the higher normal levels.

The blood glucose level, even for diabetics, is actually a rather narrow range, however levels out of range can be harmful and even life-threatening. A blood sugar level below 70 milligrams per deciliter is termed hypoglycemia, and below 60 to 65 milligrams per deciliter, an individual will begin to feel and show symptoms - shakiness, hunger, and racing of the heart among others. As blood sugar drops below 50 and further, mental function is affected and progressively deteriorates leading to unconsciousness and seizures.

At the other extreme is hyperglycemia, a glucose blood level above 180 milligrams per deciliter. However, symptoms - especially frequent or excessive hunger, thirst, or urination - often aren’t experienced until the level reaches 270 to 360 milligrams per deciliter. It should be noted that a chronic, sustained blood glucose level of just 125 milligrams per deciliter can lead to organ damage.

Ever felt as if the world were spinning around you? Or that the darkness is sucking you in? Dizziness can range from light-headedness to nausea, vomiting to blackouts. Depending on how it manifests itself, there are different kinds of dizziness. Vertigo is by far the most common kind of dizziness. It is believed that a good percentage of people over the age of 60 suffer from vertigo.

Dizziness can be brought on by varying causes. Severe headache, hypoglycemia, migraines, ear infection, sudden change in blood pressure, anxiety disorders, travel or neurological problems can cause it. Unfortunately, for many people dizziness is not a matter they can ignore.

There are a number of medications that are useful for alleviating the symptom of dizziness. However, most of these medicines can cause discomfort and other undesirable side effects. Long term use of these medicines is therefore undesirable. This is the reason why many people resort to the most effective means of stopping dizziness naturally.

Fresh ginger and ginger extracts are one of the most widely used natural remedies for dizziness. Fresh ginger is obviously the most useful form of ginger. It is even more effective than dried ginger. However, since it is difficult to get fresh ginger and take it in the right amounts, therefore most people take ginger in the form of tablets or powders.

Ginger is particularly effective for dizziness that results from travel. It can even alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. Ginger has certain properties that can tone down the conflicting messages received by the brain.

This ensures smoother coordination between the various sense organs and puts an end to dizziness. Ginger can also calm down the symptoms of vomiting, cold sweat and nausea associated with dizziness. To treat dizziness naturally, you can take fresh ginger or ginger in the form of tablets or powders. Depending on the dosage and the severity of the condition, sufferers may take in 1-2 capsules 2-4 times a day.

Reduced flow of blood to the brain can lead to feelings of light-headedness. In the case of dizziness that results from high blood pressure, celery juice can be an effective treatment. Another natural treatment for dizziness is gingko biloba. It can calm down symptoms and lead to relaxation. Mixing equal amounts of honey and apple cider vinegar with warm water is also said to be effective.

The intake of caffeinated drinks and spicy foods can lead to dizzy spells. Healthy living is another way in which it is possible to avert spells of dizziness. According to some experts, imagery may be used in conjunction with natural herbs to get over spells of dizziness naturally.